The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has voiced its regret over the region’s support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 general elections, indicating a reflective shift in their electoral choices.
In the 2023 presidential race, among the top contenders, Tinubu, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), secured the majority of votes from the northern region.
The forum’s spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, highlighted that moving forward, the region intends to foster unity and consensus when endorsing a presidential candidate.
Addressing the recent humanitarian efforts by Peter Obi, the Labour Party‘s (LP) presidential candidate in 2023, in northern communities, Suleiman emphasized the north’s future preference for a candidate perceived as more inclusive, less divisive, and more attuned to the nationwide interests.
“The decision to back Bola Tinubu for the presidency in 2023 is now seen as a misstep by the north, one they are keen not to repeat,” he stated.
“This lesson has underscored the significance of unity and agreement in choosing a presidential candidate who embodies the spirit of inclusivity and addresses the needs of all Nigerians.
“With an eye on the future, the North is set to adopt a more cautious approach in presidential endorsements, prioritizing candidates who promise a unifying and less polarizing vision for the country.
“The experience of supporting Tinubu in the last election has been a learning curve, emphasizing the need for a leader who can bridge regional divides and govern for the benefit of all,” Suleiman noted.
Tinubu’s administration has faced criticism for implementing policies considered to be against the interests of the common people.
Atiku Abubakar, Tinubu’s principal opponent in the previous election and former Vice-President, criticized the president’s policies as lacking compassion, especially in light of recent hikes in electricity tariffs.
Despite such criticisms, President Tinubu remains optimistic about the nation’s direction, pointing to measures like the recent signing of the Student Loan bill into law as steps toward alleviating poverty and ensuring a brighter future for Nigerian children. He also reassured citizens that his government is making progress in shaping the economy and combating inflation.
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